Shillong, May 29: A consultation meeting between Secretary Youth Affairs Dr Pallavi Jain Govil with NSS functionaries, programme officers, educational administrators and stakeholders was held here today, to discuss issues concerning strengthening and future direction of the National Service Scheme (NSS), particularly in the North Eastern region.
Discussions were also held on challenges arising from NSS activities clashing with academic schedules under the New Education Policy (NEP). The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in consultation with the Ministry of Education, UGC, and other stakeholders, is working towards suitable modifications and curriculum frameworks to better integrate NSS activities within the academic system.
Special emphasis was laid on reviving Adventure Camps in the North Eastern Region and strengthening experiential learning opportunities for NSS volunteers. Discussions were also held on revising the existing NSS Manual, with NSS Headquarters planning consultations and workshops to seek suggestions from stakeholders across the country.
The meeting further deliberated on integrating NSS activities into a credit-based accounting framework where volunteer contributions could be measured in hours and recognised formally.
Dr. Govil also referred to the Draft National Youth Policy and highlighted innovative ideas such as a “Personal Youth Engagement Score,” “Youth Development and Engagement Index,” and “Youth Budget” initiatives, particularly noting Meghalaya’s pioneering efforts in youth engagement.
The need for conducting studies on incentives for Programme Officers, strengthening ETI trainings, and organising State NSS Festivals and State Awards in Meghalaya was also discussed extensively during the consultation.
The meeting concluded with fruitful interactions and constructive suggestions aimed at strengthening the NSS movement, enhancing youth participation, and promoting community engagement and nation-building through volunteerism.
The meeting was organised by the NSS State Cell Meghalaya under the Office of the Director of Higher & Technical Education, Meghalaya, Shillong, in collaboration with the Regional Directorate of NSS, NER, Guwahati.
